If there’s one thing I love about summer, it’s blowing out my car’s speakers while driving with the windows down. Just thinking about it, I can feel the serotonin starting to germinate in my brain. As we all know, every good summer needs an even better summer playlist, but don’t stress! I’ve got you covered.
- “Kiss Me More” by Doja Cat ft. SZA
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“Kiss Me More” is going to be a song of the summer, I’m calling it now. A Doja and SZA collab was everything that I didn’t even know that I needed. “Kiss Me More” has already made its way onto three of my playlists, and I wouldn’t be surprised if that number goes up. The song, which was released on April 9, is the first single from Doja Cat’s upcoming third studio album.
- “Heart-Shaped Box” by Amber Mark
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I stumbled across this cover of Nirvana’s hit, “Heart-Shaped Box,” and my jaw instantly fell to the floor. Amber Mark has one of the most compelling and buttery tones that I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. If you listen to at least one song from this list, I hope it’s this one. I can assure you, you will not be disappointed.
- “Stella Brown” by Jelani Aryeh
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“Stella Brown” might be one of my favorite songs right now. It’s a perfect mix of angst, longing, and sadness all the while being upbeat and summery. Trust me, this article isn’t the last time that you’re going to hear about Jelani Aryeh.
- “The Kiss Of Venus” by Paul McCartney, Dominic Fike
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I absolutely adore this song. This reimagining of “The Kiss Of Venus” by Paul McCartney features Dominic Fike, another prevalent artist in the alternative scene, as well as rap. I highly recommend it.
- “Potential Breakup Song” by Aly & AJ
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I don’t even need to explain myself here, honestly. This song has always hit hard, but it hits even harder since the pair re-released the hit single. Seriously, go listen. Now.
- “Twin Size Mattress” by The Front Bottoms
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Yes, this is from Tiktok. No, I am not ashamed of it. I’m a big fan of The Front Bottoms and their music, and I swear to you, this song makes my ears smile. I have a strong inclination that the band is going to make its way into the alternative scene these next few years.
- “The New Workout Plan” by Kanye West
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I’ve never really been a Kanye fan, but while I was putting together a workout playlist a couple of weeks ago I stumbled across this gem. I love running to this song, there’s just something about it that brings me unfathomable joy.
- “Sun Tan” by Wallows
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I’m a big fan of Wallows, I love their style of music and this song definitely does not disappoint. This song screams summer hit.
- “Tempo” by Lizzo ft. Missy Elliott
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Lizzo is such an incredibly talented artist, and “Tempo” does not disappoint. The addition of Missy Elliott to this song makes it THAT much better.
- “Treat People With Kindness” by Harry Styles
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I’m rounding out the list with a Harry song, as I should. “Treat People With Kindness” is one of my favorite songs off of Fine Line, so much so that I have it tattooed. “TPWK” never fails to put a smile on my face, and who doesn’t love Harry Styles.
Happy jamming!!